16
mower beneath a tarpaulin or similar cover is not recommended as it may cause a build
‐
up of
condensation resulting in corrosion of the mower.
Extended shutdown and winter storage
Thoroughly clean the mower. Ideally, run the engine outdoors until the fuel tank is empty. Alternatively,
empty any remaining fuel using a fuel suction pump.
Dispose of discarded fuel safely and responsibly, remembering that petrol vapours can cause explosion or
fire. Run the engine until any remaining fuel is consumed. Allow the engine to cool. Check the condition
and cleanliness of the air cleaner. Remove the spark plug from the engine and pour a tablespoon of
engine oil into the cylinder. Gently pull the starter rope several times to turn over the engine, distributing
the oil to protect the cylinder over winter. Replace and tighten the spark plug.
At the start of the new season
Remove the spark plug and gently clean off any carbon deposits from the tip with a small copper wire
brush, finishing off with petrol. Allow the spark plug to dry. Pull the starter rope several times to expel
excess oil from the cylinder. Replace and tighten the spark plug. Fill the fuel tank with unleaded petrol.
Turn over the engine until it starts.
Before transporting the mower
Thoroughly clean the mower. Empty the fuel tank using a suction pump. Dispose of discarded fuel safely
and responsibly, remembering that petrol vapours can cause explosion or fire. Run the engine until any
remaining fuel is consumed.
Allow the engine to cool. Remove the grass collection bag. Loosen the quick release and fold down the
top section of the handles taking care not to bend the cables.
To avoid scratching the mower, insert corrugated cardboard or similar padding between the upper and
lower handlebars and the engine.
Due to the mower’s weight, use ramps or seek assistance when lifting or loading the mower.
d. Mower maintenance
Cutting system
Before and after each mowing session, check that the blade, its attachment bolts and drive shaft are not
damaged or excessively worn. Never try to straighten a bent blade. Replace a damaged, worn or bent
blade as soon as possible. Use only genuine parts. Excessive vibration when mowing is a good indication
of a problem with the cutting system.
WARNING: Vibration from a bent or damaged blade can cause costly damage to the mower. Working with
an excessively worn blade wastes fuel and can lead to injury if the blade becomes detached from the
machine.
Sharpening the blade
For best mowing results, have the edges sharpened and the blade balanced at least once a year by a
specialist service dealer or agent.
Removing the blade
Wear appropriate protective gloves to prevent possible injury when handling the blade. Disconnect the
spark plug cap and tilt the mower on its side with air filter and carburettor side uppermost.
Holding the blade firmly in one hand, use a spanner or socket to loosen the blade screw.
Mounting the blade
Wear appropriate protective gloves to prevent possible injury when handling the blade. Disconnect the
spark plug cap and tilt the mower on its side with air filter and carburettor side uppermost.
Check that all components (the blade, key, blade holder, screws and washers).are present, clean and in
good condition.
Position the blade on its support with the cooling fins facing the engine.
Check the correct alignment and matching of pads with the blade. The blade must be positioned precisely
on its stand.
Tighten the screws connecting all of the components. Make a final visual check that all parts are present
and aligned before tightening the fixing bolt very firmly with a wrench while holding the blade firmly in one
hand (NB wear suitable gloves).
